“A bad crash with several other riders involved created a hectic situation which meant neither his team car nor the event’s neutral service vehicle was in a position to provide assistance,” the Tour said in a statement.

“This ruling respects the spirit of the sport and considers the rather exceptional circumstances in which this occurred.”

The race continues on Friday with the 138km fourth stage from suburban Norwood to Victor Harbor, south of Adelaide.

Orica-GreenEDGE star Simon Gerrans took the race lead by winning stage three.

Rain and even possibly a storm is forecast for Friday after three days of hot conditions on the Tour.

– AAP

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